Nikon Z5 II vs Zf

Introduced in April 2025, the Nikon Z5 II arrives almost five years after the Z5, showcasing Nikon's commitment to perfection with its robust and full-featured camera body! Boasting a new EXPEED 7 processor, which is already found in professional models, the camera now offers a much faster burst rate of 14 fps (mechanical/electronic), ensuring you won't miss any of the action. Its full-frame sensor provides five-axis stabilisation and enhanced ISO performance (ISO 102,400 expandable). The fully articulated touchscreen with 2.01 million dots offers much better viewing.

Despite all these developments, the Z5 II retains the same size and weight as the Z5: 134 × 100.5 × 72 mm, weighing approximately 700 g with the battery and memory card inserted. This means you get the familiar feel of the camera while benefiting from enhanced ergonomics, including dual SD UHS-II slots, improved weather sealing and accurate autofocus down to -10 EV, allowing you to track subjects in low light. The camera is particularly intuitive and is equally suited to photography and video, offering internal N-RAW recording and creative colour profiles. In terms of video, it still offers 4K UHD at 30 fps and 1080p at 120 fps.

The Z5 II is now positioned as a versatile, "fairly affordable" full-frame camera, free from excessive marketing hype. It offers excellent image quality, a robust build and a smooth user experience without compromising on creative flexibility. Whether you're a nature photographer, portrait photographer or videographer looking for 4K RAW on an SD card, this camera will be a reliable companion for all your projects.

Available in October 2023, the Nikon Zf is a full-frame mirrorless camera with a 24.5-megapixel sensor. Based on the classic design inspired by the Nikon FM2, it incorporates the modern technologies of the Z series, while maintaining a light weight of 710g. It's ideal for professional photographers and enthusiastic amateurs looking for a high-performance camera with a retro look.

Equipped with the EXPEED 7 processor, the Zf offers exceptional image quality and fast performance. It has two card slots, one for SD and one for microSD, and uses the EN-EL15c battery for extended battery life. The electronic viewfinder and steerable screen, identical to those on the Z8 and Z9, provide precise, comfortable viewing.

The Nikon Zf can record video in 4K UHD at 60 frames per second and 1080p at 120 frames per second. Its ISO sensitivity range of 100 to 64,000, extendable to 204,800, ensures sharp images even in low light. With a maximum shutter speed of 1/8,000s and advanced scene detection, it's ideal for portraits, landscapes and action shots. Stabilized and tropicalized, it is designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

The Nikon Zf is an excellent choice for those looking to combine retro aesthetics with cutting-edge technology, and offers an attractive price/performance ratio in the professional mirrorless camera segment.